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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Josh Keatley

Top three outside linebackers in the Big Ten in 2023

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We recently discussed that the Big Ten was full of elite inside linebackers, but the outside linebacker position was a bit more scarce for talent. Ohio State has another stud that should continue to ride the momentum of their impressive 2022 season into 2023 and the Penn State Nittany Lions have another dynamic linebacker and another young back waiting to explode this season as well.

It is comforting that we have dove into defensive end, defensive tackle, inside linebacker and now outside linebacker and a Buckeye has made every single list, but it is also interesting that there have been so many Penn State representatives as well. Let’s dive into the top three outside linebackers in the Big Ten.

3
Abdul Carter, Penn State

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Why the Pick

Abdul Carter led the Nittany Lions in sacks last season with 6.5 and he also racked up an impressive 10.5 tackles for loss as just a true freshman. Carter is one of the splash players in an extremely talented defense.

2
Steele Chambers, Ohio State

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Why the Pick

The Buckeye linebackers do an elite job against the run and Steele Chambers is another backer who stands up ball carriers and sheds blocks extremely effectively. Chambers is built like a brick house and still moves like the running back he was recruited as. His quick transition to such a high-end backer is surprising and hopefully, he can keep improving.

1
Curtis Jacobs, Penn State

Mandatory Credit: Matthew OHaren-USA TODAY Sports

Why the Pick

Curtis Jacobs this high is based more on projection because he has such unique athleticism. If Jacobs can become a more reliable tackler, he will hear his name called early on draft day.

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